TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Taiwan's air is expected to drop to 8 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) by 2035, according to the Ministry of Environment.

The World Health Organization has set a PM2.5 standard of 5 µg/m³, while the US revised its standard to 9 µg/m³ last year. In comparison, Taiwan's average PM2.5 concentration across all air quality zones in 2024 was 14.2 µg/m³, per UDN.

Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啟明) outlined five key measures across six major sectors to intensify carbon reduction efforts. Significant air quality improvements are expected, with PM2.5 levels decreasing to about 10 µg/m³ by 2030 and 8 µg/m³ by 2035, per CNA.

Measures include reducing electricity demand, accelerating the electrification of transportation and the transition to low-carbon fuels, and cutting coal-fired power generation from a forecasted 20% in 2030 to 9% by 2035. Renewable energy usage is projected to increase from 30% in 2030 to 36% in 2035, with a corresponding steady decline in the electricity emission factor.

However, further reductions may prove challenging, as emissions have already been reduced by 70.4% compared to the baseline year 2005. This significant reduction is largely attributed to initiatives like resource recycling and the zero-landfill policy.

The government’s flagship carbon reduction plans include working with the energy sector to develop carbon capture, storage, and utilization strategies in power generation and the petrochemical industry. Efforts will also focus on promoting resource recycling and a circular economy and reducing emissions from public incinerators through agreements with private companies such as TSMC.

Additional measures involve upgrading pollution prevention systems, including treating livestock wastewater to reduce pollution while generating electricity. Other initiatives include promoting eco-labels, green procurement, improving residential insulation, and encouraging environmentally friendly practices such as sustainable dining to lower everyday carbon emissions.

A carbon fee system was implemented on Jan. 1 after months of preparation. Around 90% of companies have adopted a discounted rate of NT$100 (US$3) per metric ton, while 20% are aiming for NT$50.

Taiwan's general carbon fee rate is set at NT$300 per metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent, with discounted rates of NT$50 and NT$100 per metric ton. To qualify for the preferential rate of NT$50 per metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent, companies must achieve a 4% annual carbon reduction rate.